Immediate Effects of Atlanto-Occipital Mobilization on Head Posture, Respiratory Function, and Neck Mobility in Forward Head Posture

Bitlis Eren University

Status: Enrolling

Conditions: Forward Head Posture

Treatments: Other: Sham application; Other: Atlanto-occipital joint mobilization

Study type: Interventional

Funder types: Other

Identifiers

NCT07298226

BP-M

Details and patient eligibility

About

The purpose of this study is to investigate the immediate effects of atlanto-occipital joint mobilization on head posture, respiratory function, and cervical range of motion in healthy individuals with forward head posture.

Full description

Forward head posture (FHP) is a common postural disorder characterized by the anterior displacement of the head relative to the shoulders. The estimated prevalence of FHP among individuals who use electronic devices frequently is reported to be high, affecting a significant portion of the general population. While postural correction exercises and ergonomic education are generally the first-line management strategies for FHP, manual therapy techniques (such as joint mobilizations and soft tissue therapy) are often recommended as an adjunct treatment. Additionally, various physiotherapy approaches, including stretching of the posterior cervical muscles, strengthening of the deep neck flexors, and respiratory exercises, can also be utilized. Specific mobilization of the atlanto-occipital joint is theorized to normalize arthrokinematics and reduce fascial restrictions in the suboccipital region. This is said to decrease neuromuscular tension, improve proprioceptive input, and restore optimal alignment, resulting in positive effects on head posture, cervical mobility, and respiratory function.

Enrollment: 48 estimated patients

Sex: All

Ages: 18 to 45 years old

Volunteers: No Healthy Volunteers

Inclusion criteria

• Volunteering to participate in the study.
• Being between the ages of 18 and 45.
• Having forward head posture according to craniovertebral angle measurement.

Exclusion criteria

• History of cervical surgery or trauma.
• Diagnosed cervical disc herniation or cervical stenosis.
• Presence of a diagnosed neurological and/or rheumatological disorder.
• Pregnancy.
• Presence of malignancy.

Trial design

Primary purpose: Treatment

Allocation: Randomized

Interventional model: Parallel Assignment

Masking: Single Blind

---

48 participants in 2 patient groups

Mobilization group

Experimental group

Description:

The intervention group will receive atlanto-occipital joint mobilization.

Treatment:

Other: Atlanto-occipital joint mobilization

Sham group

Sham Comparator group

Description:

The control group will receive the sham application.

Treatment:

Other: Sham application